Ousted'Voice' singer: I'm '500 steps ahead of where I would have been'

Three of the top 12 finalists sang for their futures on "The Voice" Tuesday night — Tess Boyer, Dani Moz and T.J. Wilkins. But it was soon revealed that a lucky fan save for Boyer meant the vocal competition was over for Moz and Wilkins. The duo spoke to TODAY after the show and shared their feelings about leaving it all behind.

"I’m feeling good," Moz told us. "I have nothing but smiles. You can’t be sad. You go into the show knowing that only one of you can come out alive. I feel blessed and happy to have made it into the top 12.

“I went into (Tuesday’s show) fully prepared to be in the bottom three and to sing for my life,” she added. “When they were rattling off names I prayed I’d hear ‘Dani Moz,’ but it wasn’t in the cards.”

“I didn’t think I’d be in the bottom three,” Wilkins confessed. “But at the same time I had to prepare myself mentally that I would be. I was a little shocked, but I didn’t panic. This happens. And just because it’s happening to me doesn’t mean the world’s coming to an end.”

That's especially true considering that Wilkins believes being on the show has put him on the showbiz fast track.

“You know how in ‘The Fast and the Furious’ they have that nitrous oxide which propels them however many miles further? Well, ‘The Voice’ was like my nitrous oxide," he told TODAY. "I’m at least 500 steps ahead of where I would have been had I not done this show. What will follow next is, hopefully, a long career as a recording artist and actor in television and in film.”

“I would definitely say that her ability to carry on helped because it showed she’s a true professional,” said Wilkins.

“It showcased her strength, control and professionalism as an artist,” Moz agreed. “I would have most likely cracked. (Kristen) kept her cool and handled herself like a pro. I think that’s why she’s been getting so much praise, and that may be why she went through.”

While Merlin remains in the game, Wilkins and Moz plan to remain in touch with their respective coaches.

“(Shakira) wants to help me grow as an artist,” Moz told us of her coach.

As for Wilkins, after the show, Usher told his former team member it was an honor to work with him. But Wilkins insisted, "No, bro, it was the other way around."